FFL Launch: Build Your Firearms Business
FFL Launch is the podcast for anyone building a firearms business — whether you're thinking about getting your FFL, just opened your doors, or are looking to grow what you've already built. Every episode covers something real: from sales and marketing, to compliance, technology, and the business fundamentals that separate the gun stores that thrive from the ones that don't. Hosted by the team at TacticalPay — the firearms industry's leader in payment processing — and built for the full range of FFL entrepreneurs: from home-based FFLs, to high-volume GunBroker sellers and traditional gun shops and retailers. If you're serious about building a successful firearms business, this is your show.
Episodes
Think getting an FFL requires a retail storefront and a massive upfront investment? Think again. Over 128,000 FFLs are active in the US today, and the majority of them are home-based. In this episode, we break down the exact six-step startup checklist to get your Federal Firearms License—from confirming your eligibility to making your first legal transfer.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
- Step 1: Eligibility – Th...
The firearms industry generated $90 billion in economic impact in 2023, yet despite this massive growth, most gun stores fail.
In Episode 28, Ron from TacticalPay breaks down the five biggest reasons firearms retailers close their doors... and more importantly, what the successful ones are doing differently.
Whether you're an established FFL or planning to open your first shop, every single one of these pitfalls is avoidable ...
Is SHOT Show worth attending for gun store owners, FFLs, and firearms businesses? In this episode of Firearm Payments 101, we give an honest review of SHOT Show in Las Vegas — based on years of exhibiting at the largest shooting, hunting, and outdoor industry trade show as part of the TacticalPay team. Inside This Episode:
- Event Overview: A look at the massive January event (Venetian Expo & Caesars Forum) featuring 5...
Stop getting surprised by hidden fees. In this episode of FFL Launch, we break down the true costs of a firearms POS system so gun store owners can make true apples-to-apples vendor comparisons. Most POS platforms use a custom-quote model, meaning advertised starting prices rarely reflect the final bill. We walk you through every critical cost category so you know exactly what numbers to push for, including:
- Core Costs: Softwa...
Setting up a payment gateway on GunBroker is one of the most important decisions a gun seller or FFL can make — and the difference between Standard Checkout and Immediate Checkout directly affects how fast you get paid and how professional your listings look. In this episode of Firearm Payments 101, we break down how GunBroker payments work, which gateways are supported, and how to configure Immediate Checkout step by step.
W...
Starting a gun store is one of the most regulated paths in retail. The dealers who get it right from day one are the ones who understand what's required before they're in it.
This is your seven-step checklist for launching a firearms business the right way -- from forming your LLC, to getting your FFL, and choosing a POS system that fits your budget.
PayPal, Venmo, and Zelle are fast, familiar, and already on your customers' phones — and for an FFL dealer, they're among the most avoidable payment mistakes you can make. In this episode, we break down exactly why these platforms create serious risk for licensed firearms dealers, what their terms of service actually say about firearms transactions, and what happens when an account gets flagged.
If your gun store's POS system and payment processor are the same company, your entire operation has a single point of failure. Most firearms retailers don't think about this until a merchant account freeze shuts down everything at once: point-of-sale software, payment accounts, and sales floor.
Listen along as we break down the difference between open and closed POS platforms, why bundled systems create dangerous dependency for FF...
Gun store merchant account terminated? Before you reapply anywhere, listen to this. Most firearms dealers make the same costly mistakes in the first 48 hours after a termination, mistakes that turn a 3-day problem into a 3-month problem.
On this episode we break down why firearms merchant accounts get terminated so often, and why re-applying to Square, Stripe, or general processors can make things worse. Plus, we show you the right...
Need to take payments on the go? Whether you're selling at events, out on the range, or operating from a mobile setup, the right mobile POS system is a must. Learn what features FFLs should look for—from wireless card readers and inventory tools to firearm-friendly integrations and data security. Don't risk lost sales or frozen accounts—get set up the right way from the start.
Selling at gun shows? A reliable mobile payment setup is essential for maximizing sales and staying competitive. This episode walks through the must-have gear, features to look for in your mobile POS, and why using a firearm-friendly payment processor is critical. Whether you're a seasoned vendor or gearing up for your first show, this guide will help you run a smoother, more profitable booth.
Your point-of-sale system is more than just a cash register—it's the operational backbone of your firearms business. In this episode, we cover the key POS features FFLs should look for, including serialized inventory tracking, built-in sales tools, customer management, and range support. Whether you run a gun shop, a range, or both, find out what it takes to run smoother, sell smarter, and scale with confidence.
Looking for the top point-of-sale systems for gun stores in 2026? Get a breakdown of the leading options designed for FFLs, including features that streamline compliance, simplify inventory, and improve your customer experience.
Running a firearms retail store comes with unique operational and compliance challenges. Learn how to evaluate POS software specifically built for FFLs—from inventory tracking and ATF forms, to easy integration with your payment processor.
Setting up credit card processing for a gun store or FFL doesn't have to be complicated. Start with the basics—research firearm-friendly providers, apply for an account, get approved, and integrate your system for sales. These steps are essential to ensure your payments run smoothly and your firearms business stays supported from day one.
Not all payment processors are built for firearms businesses—but a few specialize in serving FFLs. Learn what sets them apart, including industry-specific knowledge, helpful integrations, and strong support. The right provider can help make your firearms credit card processing easier and more reliable.
A gun-friendly merchant account can make all the difference for firearms businesses. Look for features like seamless integration with GunBroker and WooCommerce, responsive customer service, and providers that understand the unique needs of the industry. Choosing the right setup helps streamline your sales and simplify operations.
Not all eCommerce platforms support firearm sales—and choosing the wrong one can stall your business. We reveal which shopping carts work best for FFLs and gun retailers, including WooCommerce, BigCommerce, and GunBroker (plus what you need to know about Shopify). Get the clarity you need to choose the right platform and sell online with confidence.
Want to accept credit cards on GunBroker without relying on their built-in system? Learn how to integrate your own payment gateway or merchant account to gain more control, flexibility, and better support. We break down what firearms sellers need to know to keep payments running smoothly on Gun Broker.
Selling guns online isn't as simple as launching a website. From federal rules to platform restrictions, one wrong move can shut you down. Get a quick crash course on what's allowed—and what to absolutely avoid—before you start accepting payments.
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